Diagnosis is based on thorough history and physical examination, followed by imaging tests. The best way to look at the posterior fossa is with an MRI.

Posterior craniotomy (open brain surgery) or stereotactic biopsy (using special instruments to get a small piece of the tumor) can be used to obtain tissue for diagnosis.

Tumors of the posterior fossa usually require surgical removal, even if they are benign (noncancerous). This is because of the delicate structures in the area that can be compressed by any abnormal growth and the frequency of symptoms associated with the tumors.

Prognosis depends on early detection. Complete obstruction to the flow of spinal fluid causes herniation and death. If tumors are recognized before this point, surgery is associated with good, long-term survival.

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